logo
43 Personal Care Products Reviewers Call 'Wizardry,' 'Sorcery,' Or Just Plain 'Magic'

43 Personal Care Products Reviewers Call 'Wizardry,' 'Sorcery,' Or Just Plain 'Magic'

Buzz Feed18-06-2025
A Derma E scar gel reviewers love for its ability to sink into skin quickly *and* even how well it sits under makeup. And it can make a difference on both new and old scars. How does this work, you ask? The key ingredients are panthenol (which can help promote new skin cell production) and allantoin (which helps attract moisture to skin and can make wound-healing faster).
A lightweight Cosrx SPF 50+ sunscreen (the same brand as the TikTok-viral snail mucin!) for anyone who isn't always the best at applying sunscreen (every! day!). This sebum-balancing formula has a moisturizer-like texture, contains skincare ingredients like cacao and vitamin E, feels breathable on the skin, leaves a semi-matte finish, and (reviewers agree!) it doesn't have a white cast, so applying it will feel like less of a chore.
Vanicream, a sensitive skin-friendly moisturizer free of common irritants (and fragrance free!) reviewers love to use on their face *and* body. The included pump dispenser is great for easy application, and avoiding contamination the jar. Plus it has the seal of acceptance from the National Eczema Association!
A butt acne-clearing lotion formulated with tea tree oil to fight pimple-causing bacteria, helping clear existing acne and helping to prevent it from coming back in the long run. Reviewers use it on their thighs and back too, and say this lotion helps their skin feel suuuper soft!
Briotech spray with the same magical ingredient as the very beloved Tower 28 SOS Daily Rescue Spray: hypochlorous acid (something our body produces naturally as part of our immune system!). Just spritz it on whenever your skin needs a little de-stressing (like on a hot, sweaty day, while traveling, or after the gym), and it'll help soothe inflammation, tone down redness, and strengthen your skin's barrier.
A bottle of Nizoral anti-dandruff shampoo formulated with 1% ketoconazole that doesn't just banish annoying flakes, but actually works to kill the fungus that causes dandruff. You can use it just twice a week, too.
A bottle of professional-grade callus-removing gel that can dissolve that pesky, hard dead skin in just a few minutes — for real, don't leave it on for more than that. Then just rinse, sand with a pumice stone or rasp, and enjoy those silky-smooth feet! If you love Baby Foot but hate waiting, this is a great option.
Medix retinol body lotion — if you've looked at your expensive facial retinol and thought "this is too expensive to slather on my body...but I want to" this is for you! Just like any retinol product, this is designed to help promote skin cell turnover, which can help visibly smooth crepe-iness, fine lines, rough and bumpy skin (like KP), and stretch marks, if that's something you're looking to do.
A piercing treatment to help tackle the bumps that are getting in the way of you showing off your excellent taste in jewelry! It takes time, but reviewers see a big difference when it comes to fading bumps and scars and helping fresh piercings heal properly.
Mielle's (TikTok-famous) Rosemary Mint strengthening oil reviewers swear by to nourish their scalps, strengthening and promoting hair growth at the root. It's formulated with biotin, moisturizing oils like jojoba, plus rosemary and mint oils, which can help stimulate the scalp.
AquaGuard, a pre-swim hair cream designed to protect your tresses from damaging chlorine (aka less dryness, fewer tangles, no turning green, and no icky chlorine smell!) — just dampen your hair, apply the cream, and dive in! Now you can play "mermaids" all you want without sacrificing your hair health.
An exfoliating mitten so you can scrub off dead skin cells and reveal softer, smoother skin during your Everything Showers. Just lather up and (gently!) massage your skin — reviewers say this is great for preventing ingrown hairs, helping reduce KP, and using before applying fake tan!
Or an exfoliating First Aid Beauty Bump eraser body scrub reviewers with KP (aka keratosis pilaris) swear by to get rid of those tiny red bumps, without slathering on any additional creams or products — just use in the shower instead of your regular soap.
Gold Bond Friction Defense, an easy-to-apply stick (just like deodorant!) to reduce friction and moisturize skin wherever you deal with painful chafing when your skin rubs together, especially when the mercury rises. It's unscented and invisible too!
L'Occitane's fast-absorbing shea butter hand cream, because if you have dry, cracked hands or just hate the feeling of papery hands post-washing when you're on the go, you need this lil' guy in your bag. And there's no overly greasy feeling after, either!
A saline nasal mist that can help moisturize dry nasal passages and irrigate to wash away mucus and allergens, which can in turn help relieve symptoms from colds and allergies. When is pollen season going to end again??
A roll-on sunscreen sponge to help you do what you need to do this summer: reapply your sunscreen every two hours. But with this handy lil guy, you can just sponge it right on, and it'll keep your hands mess-free! Idk about you, but I hate that greasy, sunscreen-y feeling on my hands when I'm at the beach.
And if you don't get those, or reapply as often as they suggest, a Burt's Bees sunburn soother so you have it on hand before you get sunburned. Even when we do our best, sometimes it happens!
SweatBlock antiperspirant wipes, which are designed to reduce excess sweating for *up to seven days*(!!). Just swipe on before bed, and kiss those pit stains that ruin your favorite shirts goodbye. They're designed to be used for under the arms, but reviewers use them elsewhere too!
A manual "flossing" toothbrush with extra soft bristles in two layers that are super thin at the tip (as thin as human hair) and designed to reach places other toothbrushes might not. Especially when paired with actual flossing, reviewers say they're left with a "fresh from the dentist" clean!
O'Keeffe's Lip Repair, a lip sleeping mask from the brand behind the cult-favorite Working Hand and Healthy Feet creams — and just like those borderline miraculous products, reviewers say this balm will heal and repair dry, cracking, chapped lips like no other product has.
Gold Bond's firming neck and chest cream — it's not only your face that deserves a skincare routine! This is formulated with salicylic acid for chemically exfoliating that delicate skin (without harsh scrubbing) plus glycerine and aloe for plenty of hydration. Reviewers are surprised at the results they get but note that it does take time. So don't forget to take a before photo, and get to slathering!
Compound W One Step Pads designed to break down common and plantar warts with minimal effort, so you can enjoy the same gloriously dramatic results as the reviewers below. Just apply and replace the medicated, salicylic acid-infused bandages every 48 hours for best results.
Biodance Bio-Collagen Real Deep Mask you can wear overnight for a serious boost of hydration, firming, and brightening — even reducing the appearance of pores and fine lines. Reviewers say they noticed a difference in just one use *and* that people stopped to compliment their skin! Btw, once you wake up and see where the mask has become transparent, you'll know the serum is absorbed — how cool is that?
CeraVe Retinol Serum that lives up to the CeraVe name and uses *encapsulated* retinol to reduce the appearance of scars and pores without flaking or redness. If you haven't gotten into retinoids yet or are worried about irritating your skin, this gentle but effective serum is a great option — and reviewers say they like it better than other more expensive options (like Murad's Retinol Serum, which retails for $92).
Or prescription-strength (but not prescription-priced) Differin Retinoid gel, because it's a true classic for a reason. It is designed to promote and "normalize" skin cell turnover, which can help clear existing breakouts, combat inflammation, and prevent the actual production of acne in the future. And since retinol increases collagen, it can help with fine lines and wrinkles as well!
Cosrx's snail mucin repairing essence that may seem like it would give you the ick, but is totally worth adding to your routine. No snail-like results here: Just pat it in the evening, and you'll be appreciating the moisture boost right away. Reviewers say it helps with acne, inflammation, peeling, fine lines, and even eczema!
Sol de Janeiro Brazilian Bum Bum Cream, a cult-favorite body cream you're going to want to slather all over your body, thanks to the deep hydration (cupuaçu butter, coconut oil, and açai oil!) and temporary skin-tightening (caffeine!) it provides, plus a fragrance with notes of salted caramel and vanilla that reviewers L O V E.
My all-time desert island holy grail, CeraVe's Skin Renewing night cream, which delivers on hydration and softness and protects your skin's natural barrier — I won't use an expensive night cream again. There's a reason people can't stop talking about CeraVe on TikTok!
Mighty Patch Pimple Patches, which absorb pus and oil from *inside* the zit, protecting skin from further damage and reinfection so you're not tempted to hot compress, pop, ooze, scar, and repeat. They also come in an ~invisible~ version that (as someone who has used them) is indeed surprisingly hard to see.
And hydrocolloid nose patches (from the same brand) that target your whole nose all at once, absorbing gunk and oil from multiple pimples and pores all at once and trapping it so you can toss it right in the trash. Say goodbye to those damaging adhesive nose strips once and for all!
Veet's sensitive hair removal gel cream, a great option if you prefer to say "so long" to body hair...but don't love other methods like shaving or waxing. If you're easily irritated or are prone to ingrowns, this might be the perfect option for you! Several reviewers tout the "dolphin-smooth" results. ::cue echolocation noises of glee::
An ergonomically designed detangling brush with cone-shaped bristles that separate tangles by pulling them apart sideways, not tugging them down. Reviewers say it's a miracle worker for everything from thick, coily hair to the finest strands!
A satin pillowcase to help maintain hair and skin health even as you sleep, reducing pesky frizz and breakage when compared with regular cotton or other fiber pillowcases — that means longer-lasting blowouts and less damage in the long run. Why spend the money on pricey brands like Slip and Blissy?
A nongreasy eye cream designed to help deflate your under eye bags, hydrate your delicate skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and brighten your under eyes, thanks to a blend of aloe, rosehip seed oil, and vitamins C & E.
A bottle of Elizavecca Hair Treatment for an intense at-home mask that'll help your strands look and feel less damaged in just five minutes. It's basically a time machine for your hair, is what I'm saying. Some reviewers say it's even BETTER than Olaplex, which is over three times the price!
TruSkin vitamin C serum formulated with hyaluronic acid (to provide a boost of hydration), soothing aloe vera, and vitamin E (in addition to the namesake vitamin C) — a combo designed to brighten and smooth your skin for your glowiest glow yet. And money-saving alert: reviewers say it's comparable to the SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic serum (which costs $182 for the full-size btw!).
Anua Heartleaf Pore Control Cleansing Oil, a K-beauty cult-fave you can use as step one of your double cleanse. Just apply to dry skin and gently massage, then emulsify with water to dissolve makeup and sunscreen and remove sebum and the day's grime, leaving your skin refreshed but not stripped. Reviewers *swear* by it for helping reduce blackheads and sebaceous filaments, too!
Or! For a balm option, Juno & Co.'s Clean 10 cleansing balm formulated with Japanese pearl barley to help brighten skin as it cleanses. Just scoop out a pea-sized amount (it comes with a lil' spatula!) and massage into your skin — it'll become a luxurious oil and gently dissolve allllll the makeup, SPF, dirt, oil, and more, leaving no residue behind *and* not overly stripping skin of moisture.
A bottle of CND SolarOil, a nail and cuticle oil to help your nails grow and grow (no peeling!), and keep your cuticles nourished and soft, no matter how much hand sanitizer you're using. Just massage in the jojoba oil and vitamin E infused formula daily.
Radha rosehip oil to not only soften skin and lock in moisture (just like other oils), but also help reduce redness and breakouts, thanks to the rich blend of vitamins A, C, and E, fatty acids and anti-inflammatory antioxidants.
SoCozy curl conditioning spray, which was designed with kiddos' curls in mind, but works for reviewers of all ages! This leave-in conditioner moisturizes and helps improve curl definition and elasticity with just a few quick spritzes, which is great for impatient kids *and* grownups with limited time.
A bottle of Tend Skin Solution to stop ingrown hairs and skin irritation in their tracks, making it the perfect post-shaving product with a cult following for a reason.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

This already-common cancer — and its deadliness — will significantly increase in the next 25 years: study
This already-common cancer — and its deadliness — will significantly increase in the next 25 years: study

New York Post

timean hour ago

  • New York Post

This already-common cancer — and its deadliness — will significantly increase in the next 25 years: study

A year ago, Avery Spickler visited her doctor because she was experiencing some abnormal bleeding. 'My doctor really wasn't super concerned with it,' Spickler, 24, recently recalled on TikTok. 'About a week later, I just had this sinking feeling that something was wrong, so I went and saw another doctor, who sent me to get an ultrasound.' The exam revealed a polyp, and the Illinois teacher was shocked to be diagnosed with Stage 1 uterine cancer. She's not alone — cases of uterine cancer have been on the rise in the past decade, even as other cancers have become less common in the US. Advertisement 4 Uterine cancer cases and deaths have increased over the last decade, even as other cancers have declined. saksit – 'Overall, uterine cancer is one of the few cancers where both incidence and mortality have been increasing,' said Dr. Jason D. Wright, chief of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at Columbia University and lead author of a new study about uterine cancer. 'Understanding future trends will help inform the development of robust strategies to reduce the burden and improve outcomes.' Advertisement The uterus is the pear-shaped organ where a baby grows in a woman. Endometrial cancer — which develops in the lining of the uterus — is the most common type of uterine cancer. About 69,000 new cases of uterine cancer and nearly 14,000 deaths are expected this year, according to the American Cancer Society. 4 A doctor shows a patient a model of the uterus. Evgeniy Kalinovskiy – Cases increased an average of 0.7% each year from 2013 to 2022, and age-adjusted death rates rose 1.6% annually over the same period, according to the new study, published this week in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention, a journal of the American Association for Cancer Research. Advertisement Wright's team projected a jump from 57.7 cases per 100,000 in 2018 to 74.2 cases in 2050 for white women. Deaths are estimated to increase from 6.1 to 11.2 per 100,000 in this group. Black women are expected to see a spike from 56.8 cases to 86.9 cases per 100,000. Deaths are predicted to climb from 14.1 to 27.9 per 100,000. 'There are likely a number of factors that are associated with the increased burden of uterine cancer in black women,' Wright explained. Advertisement 'They more commonly have aggressive types of uterine cancer, face delayed diagnosis resulting in later-stage disease at diagnosis, and there are often delays in their treatment.' The average age of uterine cancer diagnosis is around 60, with most women being postmenopausal. 4 This pelvis X-ray shows uterine cancer. BSIP/Universal Images Group via Getty Images Risk factors include a family history of uterine cancer, hormonal imbalances and obesity. A 2022 study identified a possible link between the use of chemical hair straightening products and an increased risk of uterine cancer. These products often contain endocrine-disrupting chemicals, potentially interfering with hormone levels. The good news is that GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Zepbound may spur obesity rates to decline. At the same time, a hysterectomy is known to reduce the risk of uterine cancer. Rates of the procedure, which is the removal of the uterus and cervix, are estimated to drop about 26% from 2020 to 2035. 4 Hysterectomy, shown here, is the primary treatment for uterine cancer. Universal Images Group via Getty Images Advertisement There is no standard screening test for uterine cancer in women without symptoms, which tend to be abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge or pain during urination or intercourse. Diagnostic tests may include a pelvic exam, an ultrasound and an endometrial biopsy. Screening is most effective starting at 55, Wright said. Hysterectomy is the primary treatment. Other options include radiation therapy, chemotherapy and hormone therapy. Advertisement Spickler revealed on TikTok that she's done hormone therapy this year, but her cancer persists. 'Lowkey deserve to be spoiled going through all this,' she joked this week.

The 12 Best Hydrating Toners for Skin That Feels Like Silk
The 12 Best Hydrating Toners for Skin That Feels Like Silk

Elle

time3 hours ago

  • Elle

The 12 Best Hydrating Toners for Skin That Feels Like Silk

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy. Some shocking news: toners aren't all that necessary. Still, that doesn't mean they're not a good supplementary treatment to have in your skincare regimen, especially if you have chronically dry, dehydrated skin. Since toners are an optional step, if you do choose to use a toner, it should at least check off a few boxes, but one, in particular, is of the most importance: hydration. But what is a toner, anyway? 'A toner is a solution that typically contains actives and is designed to be used after cleansing and before moisturizing. Toners can balance pH, remove impurities, exfoliate, and hydrate. They are not necessary, but they can provide great benefits,' says Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, a board-certified dermatologist at Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York and clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College. For those with dry skin, 'the benefits of a toner depend on the specific formulation and the ingredients it contains. Many toners contain exfoliating actives that help to improve tone and texture, reduce dullness, diminish hyperpigmentation, and bring a glow to the skin,' she adds. Toners made specifically for dry skin can 'hydrate, balance pH, and remove residual oils.' While your TikTok and Instagram bookmark tab is likely chock-full of toners on your wishlist, we did the hard work for you by combing through dozens of online customer reviews and our personal stash to find the 12 best toners for dry skin. We also polled Dr. Murphy-Rose for her tips and derm-approved picks. Supple skin is on its way! Key ingredients: Heartleaf extract, Size: 8.45 fl oz Perfect for sensitive skin, this toner feels like a spa retreat for stressed, irritated skin. Heartleaf extract is the star of the show, providing calming and anti-inflammatory properties to prep your skin for subsequent steps. It's also super hydrating and helps restore the skin's barrier. Amazon rating: 4.5/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'Not going to lie, TikTok put this toner on my radar. It seems as if I'm prone to stress, and my skin is the first place my worries rear its head, but this toner has helped calm my skin down at its worst times. After cleansing (with the Quercetinol Cleanser, of course), this toner seeps into my skin and leaves it feeling refreshed and soothed.'—Nerisha Penrose, beauty commerce editor Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, ceramides Size: 6.8 oz Those who have heavy actives in their regimen will love this soothing toner by Cerave. Your skin will drink up all its goodness, from the bursting freshness of hyaluronic acid to barrier-strengthening ceramides. Amazon rating: 4.6/5 stars Our expert says: 'Cerave Alcohol-Free Hydrating Face Toner hydrates and calms dry skin with hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, and ceramides. It is also fragrance-free and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.'—Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, board-certified cosmetic at Laser & Skin NY Key ingredients: mandelic acid, lactic acid, yarrow extract Size: 3 oz I know what you're thinking—did the OG Paula's Choice exfoliant get a new look? No, but a new formula has been added to the brand's exfoliant family. This iteration was made especially for those with sensitive skin looking for a gentler approach to skin renewal and luminosity. Plus, with an active-heavy formula, the yarrow extract helps to cushion the skin barrier. Sephora rating: 4.8/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'Since I'm already a retinol gal, adding any new product to my routine can send my skin into panic mode. I thoroughly enjoyed how easily my skin adjusted to this toner, how smooth my skin felt after just a few days of use, and how clusters of acne breakouts flattened over time.'—Nerisha Penrose Key ingredients: Miracle Broth, marine ferment Size: 6.7 oz Couple your Creme de La Mer with this calming, soothing toner that blankets the skin with moisture and hydration via La Mer's signature Miracle Broth formula, marine ferment, and more. Sephora rating: 5/5 stars A Sephora reviewer said: 'Love this so worth the money 3 buy already. so refreshing!!!!!!!!' Key ingredients: salicylic acid, hyaluronic acid Size: 50 pads Skincare Junkie's toner pads get cut to the chase with an exfoliant-rich formula that unveils fresh, brighter, and less-congested skin. Salicylic acid is the star here, but it doesn't work alone; fruit enzymes and PHAs are added to the mix to improve tone and texture, while hyaluronic boosts hydration. Amazon rating: 5/5 stars Our expert says: 'Pore Therapy Daily Toner Pads minimize the appearance of pores while preventing breakouts. They are new-generation toners that are hydrating rather than alcohol-based and drying. In addition to salicylic acid, these toner pads contain gluconolactone to hydrate while gently exfoliating. Hyaluronic acid in seven molecular weights attracts water at multiple skin levels. Skin-soothing aloe calms dry, sensitive skin. They are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.'—Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose Key ingredients: niacinamide, exfolactive Size: 1 oz We've all scrolled on Charlotte Tilbury's Instagram page, coveting all the models' dewy, smooth visage. Spoiler alert: it's likely all credit goes to this solution. The Glow Toner couples niacinamide to improve the appearance of pores, and exfolactive, which uses extracts culled from prickly pear to address fine lines and wrinkles. Nordstrom rating: 4.4/5 stars A Nordstrom reviewer said: 'Indulge in the luxurious experience of Charlotte Tilbury Glow Toner and treat yourself to radiant, glowing skin. This toner has completely transformed my skincare routine. With just a few swipes, it effortlessly revitalizes and brightens my complexion, leaving it looking refreshed and rejuvenated. The delicate floral scent is an added bonus that makes every application feel like a spa-like experience. Charlotte Tilbury Glow Toner truly deserves a spot in your daily self-care ritual - it's the ultimate treat for your skin!' Key ingredients: antioxidants, amino acids Size: 7.3 oz As the name suggests, EltaMD's toner is essentially rehab for irritated or damaged skin. This solution uses antioxidants and amino acids to restore the skin's pH balance and strengthen the barrier, perfect for post-peel care or in between retinol days. An ELLE editor says: 'EltaMD makes more than your favorite sunscreen. Try this toner! It soothes my skin and leaves it hydrated. Try it after using your facial cleanser; you will not be disappointed.' —Danielle James, digital beauty director Key ingredients: niacinamide, acerola, Australian lemon myrtle Size: 5 oz Skin prep makes all the difference ahead of makeup application. To achieve a Rihanna-esque flawless beat, go in with the Fat Water toner. This is a lightweight formula that brightens, controls oil, and refines pores so your skin appears smoother, dark spots and pores less visible. Sephora rating: 4.1/5 stars A Sephora reviewer said: 'Love love love this product! My skin is so soft, it has never looked better. My skin has been so dry and this stuff has definitely fixed that. I definitely recommend it!' Key ingredients: ceramides, panthenol Size: 5.07 oz Whether sensitive or not, skin can easily be compromised when too many actives or strong retinols come into play. Dr. Jart+ has the remedy: ceramides. The Ceramidin Skin Barrier Serum Toner fights the skin's battles so you don't have to; nourishing ceramides arm the skin barrier to build up a defense and prevent further damage. Sephora rating: 4.6/5 stars A Sephora reviewer said: 'Obsessed!! 10 out of 10!!! My skin has been suffering in this winter weather and my regular winter routine was not doing it for me but I tried this and instantly hydrating & nourishing! I almost cried!! lol This will be a staple!' Key ingredients: hyaluronic acid, rose fruit extract, angelica leaf extract Size: 8.4 oz Few toners have a cult following quite like the Rose Deep Hydration Facial Toner. Gorgeous rose petal packaging aside, this toner is supercharged with hydrating ingredients that reverse dryness, seal in moisture, and improve the look of pores. Plus, the faint rose scent is an added bonus. Ulta rating: 4.6/5 stars An ELLE editor says: 'I'm obsessed with the entire Rose line from Fresh. As someone who hates scented skin care, this one is faint and doesn't irritate my sensitive skin. I palm a bit of the solution in my hands and massage into my face for an early morning pick-me-up; the hydrating formula feels like a parched skin's dream.'—Nerisha Penrose Key ingredients: ceramides, peptides, white tea leaf Size: 1.6 oz Hydration is the purpose of every product Laneige offers. This milky, lightweight liquid doubles as a toner and a moisturizer, imparting nourishment via ceramides and peptides. An Amazon reviewer said: 'This product has done wonders for my dry, dull winter skin. I receive compliments on the glowiness of my face daily after applying at night, in the morning and periodically throughout the day when my skin feels dry.' Key ingredients: colloidal oat, hyaluronic acid, honey Size: 6 oz When your skin sends out an SOS, this is the toner to help restore balance. The MVP of this recipe is colloidal oat, a soothing, calming ingredient that cushions agitated skin; hyaluronic acid and honey offer a surge of moisture and plumpness. Our expert says: 'First Aid Beauty ​​Ultra Repair Wild Oat Hydrating Toner contains colloidal oatmeal, honey, and hyaluronic acid to soothe and hydrate. Honey has inherent anti-inflammatory properties and is a natural humectant, attracting moisture.'—Dr. Murphy-Rose Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose is a board-certified cosmetic, medical, and surgical dermatologist specializing in facial rejuvenation at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York and clinical instructor of dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College. Toners aren't always necessary, but they do have great benefits for those with dry, dull skin. It's all in the formula. 'Hydrating toners often contain humectants that attract moisture to the skin's surface to hydrate,' Dr. Murphy-Rose states. If your skin is parched, look for toners with hydrating properties over exfoliating ones. Hydrating ingredients will yield the results you're looking for. 'Look for humectants like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, aloe, and certain hydroxy acids, especially gentle polyhydroxy acids (PHAs) like gluconolactone,' Dr. Murphy-Rose adds. 'It really comes down to what ingredients are in the toner. Some are designed for dry skin or oily and combination skin and can be used daily, while others are too strong to be used that frequently,' she explains. Carefully examine the ingredients to see what makes sense for your skin type. Hydrating toners can be used more frequently than those packed with AHAs or enzymes. As a leading publisher of fashion, lifestyle, and beauty content, is committed to highlighting the best products in various categories by personally testing the latest and most innovative products, interviewing countless experts, and vetting customer-loved items. For this piece, beauty commerce editor Nerisha Penrose personally tested toners and poured over customer reviews to find the best ones for dry skin. She also spoke to a dermatologist to learn about its benefits and purpose. The Best Glycolic Acid Toners for Smoother, Brighter Skin The Best Face Exfoliators for a Soft, Smooth Complexion The Best Wrinkle Creams That Are Better Than Botox

A Doctor's Guide to Your First Month with Type 2 Diabetes
A Doctor's Guide to Your First Month with Type 2 Diabetes

Health Line

time4 hours ago

  • Health Line

A Doctor's Guide to Your First Month with Type 2 Diabetes

A new type 2 diabetes diagnosis can feel overwhelming. Here's what a doctor recommends as key steps to manage your health during the first month. Being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes can feel overwhelming. There's a lot to learn, process, and adjust, and it often comes with a mix of emotions. It's common to feel uncertain about where to begin. Dr. Jennah Siwak, a board certified family and obesity medicine physician known as @WeightDoc on TikTok, recommends focusing your first month on five key areas that will help lay a strong foundation: Education: Learn what type 2 diabetes is and how it affects your body. Blood glucose awareness: Understand if and when to monitor your glucose levels. Lifestyle audit: Take inventory of your current eating and activity habits. Medication: Learn how your prescribed treatment works and how to stay consistent with it. Support: Build a network of people and resources to help you stay on track emotionally and practically. This guide will walk you through each of these focus areas with practical steps and advice based on Dr. Siwak's insights. 1. Meet with your care team and get educated Understanding what type 2 diabetes is and how to manage it is the most important early step. 'Education is a great place to begin,' says Dr. Siwak. 'Education helps build self-confidence in your ability to manage diabetes. It's crucial for informed decision making and helps prevent complications from uncontrolled blood sugar.' Working with a care team can also help reduce fear and confusion. To get started, you can: Schedule a follow-up appointment: Book a visit with your primary care provider as soon as possible. Ask for referrals, if needed: Consider seeing a registered dietitian, diabetes self-management educator (DSMES), or endocrinologist (less common). Prepare questions ahead of time: Write down questions to discuss during your appointment. Questions you might ask include: Do I need to check my blood glucose? What are the signs of low or high blood suga r? What is my blood sugar goal? How do food, exercise, medications, stress, or illness affect my glucose? 2. Start monitoring blood glucose if advised Monitoring your blood sugar helps you understand how your body responds to different foods, physical activity, and medications. 'Tracking may not be forever,' says Dr. Siwak, 'but in the beginning, it builds awareness that helps guide your care plan.' To start monitoring your blood sugar, you can: Ask your doctor if monitoring is recommended: Find out when you should check your blood sugar, such as fasting, before meals, or only when you feel off. Learn how to monitor: Use the method your doctor recommends, like a finger-stick glucose meter or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). Track consistently: Record your blood sugar levels regularly, along with your food intake and physical activity. Use tracking tools: Try apps like MySugr or Glucose Buddy, or keep a written log in a notebook if you prefer. 3. Take a nutrition and activity inventory You don't need to make major changes overnight. Start by understanding your current habits and choosing one or two places to make a meaningful shift. Nutrition adjustments 'The food we eat is a major controllable factor in balancing blood sugar,' says Dr. Siwak. Rather than aiming for perfection, aim for one simple improvement at a time. Reduce sugar and carb intake: Choose one high-sugar or high carb item you eat or drink regularly, like soda, juice, desserts, or alcohol, and reduce or eliminate it. Learn to read food labels. Pay attention to food labels for added sugars, total carbohydrates, and fiber. This will give you more control over what you eat. Start adding in healthier foods: Try to prioritize lean proteins (chicken, fish, tofu), non-starchy vegetables (leafy greens, broccoli, zucchini), and whole grains (quinoa, brown rice). Meet with a registered dietitian (RD): An RD can help you create a sustainable eating plan tailored to your needs. Physical activity adjustments Physical activity lowers blood glucose, improves insulin sensitivity, and benefits both heart and mental health. 'Start moving,' says Dr. Siwak. 'It doesn't have to be anything crazy or intimidating, and yes, walking counts.' Here's how to get started: Check with your doctor: Make sure you're cleared to begin exercising. Use a step counter or phone app: Track your movement and look for small, steady increases in your daily steps. Start small: Aim for just 5 minutes of movement. If you continue beyond that, great. If not, you've still made progress. Work toward 150 minutes per week: This can look like 30 minutes a day, five days a week. Build up gradually based on your ability. 4. Understand your medication plan Many people with type 2 diabetes will need medication. 'People often feel they should be able to manage diabetes without medication or feel like they've failed if they need it,' says Dr. Siwak. 'That's not true. Sometimes medication is necessary, especially early on.' To manage your medication effectively, you can: Ask about your medication: Find out what you've been prescribed, how it works, when to take it, if it needs to be taken with food, and what side effects to watch for. Set up reminders: Use alarms, medication apps, or a pill organizer to help you take your medication consistently. Reach out for help: Contact your pharmacist or doctor with any questions or concerns about your medication or what to expect from it. 5. Build your support system 'This isn't your fault,' says Dr. Siwak. 'There is usually a strong genetic predisposition. Genetics is the lock, and lifestyle is the key.' Diabetes can feel isolating, especially in the beginning. Having support helps with emotional well-being, accountability, and motivation. To strengthen your support system, you can: Talk with someone you trust: Share your diagnosis and what you're learning. Invite a family member or friend: Ask them to join you in a healthy habit like meal prepping or walking together. Find a support group: Look for diabetes support groups locally or online to connect with others who understand what you're going through. Follow credible educators: Use social media to follow trusted health professionals who provide reliable diabetes information and encouragement. Stay organized and track your progress Managing diabetes involves keeping track of daily habits, symptoms, and routines. Staying organized helps you stay consistent and reduces mental load. To stay organized, you can: Set alarms on your phone: Use reminders for medication times or meals as needed. Use a tracking app or notebook: Log your food intake or blood glucose with apps like LoseIt, MyFitnessPal, MySugr, or Glucose Buddy. If you prefer, a simple notebook works well too. Keep a central place for important documents: Store lab results, medication instructions, and doctor notes in a folder, app, or paper file. Visit trusted sources regularly: Check websites like the American Diabetes Association for credible and up-to-date information. What progress looks like in the first month There's no single definition of a 'successful' first month. Dr. Siwak emphasizes that 'any improvement is a win.' Progress is not only measured in blood sugar numbers. Signs you're on track Beyond blood sugar numbers, these are concrete steps that show you're actively managing your diabetes: You've met with at least one member of your care team. You've started taking medications consistently. You've made one change to your eating habits. You've increased your physical activity. You feel more informed and less overwhelmed. Signs of a healthy mindset Managing diabetes is as much about mental shifts as physical ones. Here's how a healthy mindset looks as you adjust: You've accepted the diagnosis and are taking action. You're learning what affects your blood glucose and are adjusting accordingly. You're showing yourself compassion instead of blame. You're focused on consistency rather than quick fixes.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store